May 2008 1

MAY 2008 VOL. 46, NO. 3 DISTRICT 29www.usps.org/localusps/columbus/

Dinner from 6:30-7:15pm. • Program 7:15pm

Event is catered by Hoggy’s Smokehouse.Menu: BBQ Buffet – BBQ Pulled Pork and BBQ Pulled Chicken, GreenBeans with Bacon and Onions, Award winning Mac ‘n cheese, freshcoleslaw. Desserts include cookies and turtle brownies.

Cash bar: includes beer, wine, pop & water at Power Squadron prices.

PROGRAM: Have you ever had to use a fire extinguisher? When was thelast time you shot a flare gun? Here is your chance!!! In cooperation withthe Orange Township Fire Department, we will have a live, hands-on fireextinguisher discharge demonstration and distress flare demonstration.Get all the information you need to save your life before you need to useit.

Cost: $20 per person – includes catered dinner and program materials.

Items to bring: lawn chairs, your expired flares and guns, friends andfamily members, money for 50/50 raffle.

RSVP: Michael Hughes 614-488-4758 or mtbuckets@aol.com BEFOREApril 25, 2008BONUS: The first 30 families who RSVP before the deadline will receive agift. Don’t delay, RSVP today!!

Dinner Meeting 1 MaySquadron Headquarters

COLUMBUSSAIL AND POWERSQUADRON

A UNIT OF UNITED STATES POWER SQUADRONS

Galley Gossip

2 Galley Gossip

CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTSMAY 1 Thursday Monthly Dinner Meeting - HQ

3 Saturday Ice Breaker Dinner - Nor’ Easter, Catawba Island5 Monday Seamanship Class Begins - HQ

17-18 Sat.-Sun. Vessel Safety Exams - Alum Creek17-23 Sat.-Fri. National Safe Boating Week

27 Tuesday Executive Committee Meeting - HQ22 Thursday Marion Power Squadron 50th Anniv. Celebration

JUNE12 Thursday Monthly Dinner Meeting - Italian Club

20-22 Fri.-Sun. Kanawha River CruiseJULY

3-6 Thurs.-Sun. Bob-Lo Island/Detroit River Cruise12-20 Sat.-Sun. North Channel Trailer Boat Rendezvous

AUGUST1-3 Fri.-Sun. D/29 Summer Council - Toledo Yacht Club

8-10 Fri.-Sun. Sea Gals Gem Beach Cruise23 Sat. Lake Erie Lunch-Hook Rendezvous26 Tuesday Executive Committee Meeting - HQ

29-1 Sept. Fri.-Mon. Leamington Rendezvous - CanadaSEPTEMBER19-21 Fri.-Sun. Put-in-Bay Rendezvous - Crew’s Nest

Cdr Larry R. Whiting, P Lt David R. Fannon, AP

Articles, opinions and advertisements do notnecessarily reflect USPS policy or endorse-ment unless so designated.

SecretaryLt/C Steven Smith, JN

PhotographyLt Jeff Mirgon, S

DistributionExcelsior Printing Co.

Note: The Post Office does not forwardor return to sender 3rd Class Mail.Therefore, we have no way to know ifyou are not receiving your CSPS mail-ings unless you tell us. Mail name oraddress changes to: Lt/C Steve Smith,535 Pointview Dr., Westerville, OH43081.

“GALLEY GOSSIP” is publishedmonthly for the members of the Co-lumbus Sail and Power Squadron.Deadline for receiving articles is thefirst of the month for the followingmonth’s publication. Articles of infor-mation can be mailed to Lt David Fan-non, AP, P.O. Box 07798, Columbus,OH 43207-0798 (443-6164), or sende-mail to: dfannon@xlcr.com.

CSPS Web Site:www.usps.org/localusps/columbus/

Chartered 1940 • Hdq.: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, Ohio 43035-7139 • 614-384-0245 • bdmichael@core.com

2005

2008-2009 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEECCCCCOLOLOLOLOLUMBUS SUMBUS SUMBUS SUMBUS SUMBUS SAIL AND POAIL AND POAIL AND POAIL AND POAIL AND POWER SQUWER SQUWER SQUWER SQUWER SQUADRADRADRADRADRONONONONON

A Unit of United States Power Squadrons • 1185-29 • Chartered 1940HEADQUARTERS: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, Ohio 43035-7139 • 614-384-0245

bdmichael@core.comCommander Cdr Larry Whiting, P 614 761-2064Executive Officer Lt/C Robert L. Prior, S 614 457-6772Educational Officer Lt/C Dave Clark, AP 614 891-4120Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN 614 488-4758Secretary Lt/C Steven Smith, JN 614 890-5864Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S 614 761-8819Imed. Past Cdr P/C David R. Michael, P 614 202-1312Ch/Rules/Com P/C Robert Van der Wissel, AP 614 570-0055Member-at-Large Lt Pam Carr-Jackson, P 614 895-0435Member-at-Large Lt Wade Grosz, AP 614 889-0934Member-at-Large Lt Tracy Garrett, S 614 488-4758Member-at-Large Lt Ron Hupman, S 614 291-0248Member-at-Large Lt Jim Igo, S 614 766-5778Member-at-Large Lt Doug Jackson, JN 614 895-0435Member-at-Large Lt Ron Lavely, JN 614 879-7388Member-at-Large Lt Jeff Mirgon, S 614 207-2650Member-at-Large Lt Sue Nadolson, AP 740 397-8385

Commander Editor

Official Publication of Columbus Sail & Power Squadron

COLUMBUS SAIL AND POWER SQUADRON

Galley Gossip

May 2008 3

COMMANDER’S MESSAGECdr Larry R. Whiting, P

EXECUTIVE OFFICERLt/C Robert L. Prior, S

As you Acting Commander I was honored to representyour squadron at the D/29 Conference on 29 March for therecovering Commander Larry Whiting, P. This event washeld at the Maumee Bay State Park Resort on the shores ofbeautiful Lake Erie.

One of the burning issues presented at the fireside chatby V/C Dvorak on Saturday morning was that USPS isattempting to make some major changes in the way weenroll new members. The proposal is that a person couldjoin the squadron by going online and paying their dueswithout ever taking a safe boating course.

The public boating classes are also having some changesbeing made to them and I’m sure that you will be hearingmore about that from our SEO David Clark, AP

Many awards were also given and Columbus receivedour share. The Galley Gossip editors, David and MelissaFannon received the “Distinction in Journalism” Award andthe Squadron won the “USPS Educational Fund Certificate ofMerit” for one hundred per cent of the members participat-ing in the USPS Education Fund. I was honored to receivethe award for Gustav Schell, P for obtaining his 50th meritmark. This prestigious award will be presented to him at ourdinner meeting. Sue Nadolson, AP received her “Education

Achievement” award forobtaining the grade of AP andcompleting three electivecourses.

Phil Osborne, AP wassworn in as the new D/29Administrative Officer andLarry Lowe, SN took the oathas the new D/29 AssistantEducation Officer.

As you can see, oursquadron was very evident atthis conference. If you have

never attended a district function I would like to invite youto the next one. It is the D/29 Summer Council and Rendez-vous at the Toledo Yacht Club on 1-3 August. The uniquepart of this meeting is that is will be held on our personalferry boat plying the waters of the Maumee River and LakeErie. Please contact me for details.

As Cdr Whiting says, we are “Making Headway”.Smooth sailing and I’ll see you in class, at a meeting, and onthe water.

P/C Larry Lowe, SN

In mid February, I had theopportunity to attend my firstUSPS Annual meeting, whichwas held in Dallas, Texas.Like most meetings, wisdomdoesn’t flow exclusively fromthe formal presentations butfrom casual conversations aswell. Listed below are someitems which I thought hadmerit for our consideration.

The most vibrant squad-rons have a very active callingcommittee. They typically phone each member before eachevent. This procedure has increased participation in squad-ron events and greatly aided membership retention. MichaelHughes is actively working on rebuilding our calling commit-tees.

One squadron shared that they utilize a “WelcomeWagon” approach to each new member. The idea would befor each new member to immediately be assigned a mentorand receive a welcome packet. The packet would containbasic information on USPS, the local squadron, schedule ofactivities and a copy of the current roster.

Some squadrons have formed an active “EnvironmentCommittee.” Those that have such a committee advertise

that fact to prospective new members when teaching the“Safe Boating” class. It has a great deal of impact onyounger members and prospective members by enhancingthe relevance and credibility of USPS in today’s world.There is a lot of support material available through National.

Create a “Coastal Clean Up Day” that would focus on aspecific section of a lake shore or river bank. The event andits mission should be well publicized to generate partici-pants from within and outside of the squadron. Themission would be to pick up and document trash and otherdebris that is foreign to the shoreline. Our own SkipWoodruff is now involved in this on a national level.

To deal with ever growing technical complexities andopportunities, some squadrons have created the staffposition of “Computer Systems Officer.” All squadron ITwould be grouped under this office. The title is sufficientlyself-evident that it eliminates confusion on the part ofmembers about who should be sought out whenevertechnical issues arise.

The Vessel Safety Check program has enjoyed greatsuccess since its inception. Consider the following VSCnumbers (checks performed): 2000 = 3,150; 2007 = 33,875.Since 2000, the grand total is 205,875. (Note: Oursquadron’s goal for this summer is to perform 100 VSC’s. Ifyou are interested in becoming an examiner, please contactJohn Pruitt jmepruitt@prodigy.net

4 Galley Gossip

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERLt/C Michael Hughes, JN

Earlier this month, my judgment was clouded when Iplaced 3 PFDs on the trunk lid of our family car that wasbacked into our garage. Upon arriving home one Fridayafternoon, I noticed the car was gone – and so were thePFDs. Fear went through me as I looked around the garagehoping to see the life vests laying somewhere. Unfortu-nately, they had blown off of the trunk lid as the car wentdown the road. Extremely upset with myself wonderingwhat I could do to get them back, after driving down theroad to look for them, I decided to put a large sign in myfront yard that read, “LOST 3 LIFE JACKETS REWARDOFFERED” hoping someone had found them and would seethe sign. On Monday evening, prior to leaving for the PublicBoating Course, our doorbell rang. There stood a ladyholding 3 life jackets that looked just like the ones I lost.Goosebumps ran up my arms when I saw them. This GoodSamaritan was happy to return them to me and reluctant toaccept the reward. Convincing her good deeds shouldalways be rewarded, she finally accepted my token ofappreciation – a small amount compared to the cost toreplace these items. My faith in mankind has been rejuve-nated.

This brings me to our Maydinner meeting. I need your help inkeeping the spirit of humanity alive.We need 60 people in attendanceto make this dinner and educationalprogram break even. It is ineverybody’s best interest to under-stand and know how to use a fireextinguisher and a flare gun. Thisknowledge could save the life ofyou, your family and friendswhether on your boat or on land.Half of the cost covers the meal andthe other half covers the recharging

of the fire extinguishers. We would ask that you bring yourexpired flares and flare gun as we can shoot them off atHeadquarters. In addition the first 30 families to RSVP willreceive a special gift the night of the event. So call me nowat 614-488-4758 or get on your computer and e-mail me atmtbuckets@aol.com When the surprise is gone, it is gone!Make a good judgment call – bring your family and friends.

FROM THE CSPS LIBRARY

OFF THE SHELFMay ushers in the 2008 boating season and with it

BOAT SAFETY WEEK.With that in mind I would like to put the VESSEL

SAFETY CHECK LIST..“ON THE SHELF”!“ON THE SHELF”!“ON THE SHELF”!“ON THE SHELF”!“ON THE SHELF”!

The Vessel Safety Check involves asking a qualifiedVessel Examiner to perform the FREE examination of yourvessel....the requirements, recommendations and discus-sions involved in this process will be outlined below. Theyare completed by a U. S. Coast Guard approved VesselExaminer and are based on the size of your vessel. A copy ofthe VESSEL SAFETY CHECK will be posted ON THE librarybook SHELF for anyone who wishes to review the list. Youcan also look over the Administrative Officer’s Report,by Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN in the April Galley Gossip to get anidea of what will be checked and why. He also has includeda list of Vessel Safety Inspectors that you may contact toarrange for your free inspection.

Below are the fifteen basic areas that are checked andeight areas that will be reviewed/discussed with you duringthe vessel check.

The 15 Basic Areas are:Display of Numbers; Registration/Documentation;

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD); Visual Distress Signals(VSD); Fire Extinguishers; Ventilation; Backfire FlameControl; Sound Producing Devices/Bells; Navigation Lights;State and/or Local Requirements; and Overall Condition:Deck Free of Hazards; Clean Bilge; Electrical-Fuel Systems;Galley and Heating Systems.

The 8 Recommended and Discussion Items are:Marine Radio; Dewatering Device and Backup; MountedFire Extinguishers; Anchor and Line for Area; First Aidand Person in Water Kits; Inland Visual Distress Signals;Capacity/Certificate of Compliance;

and Dicussions Items: Accident Reporting—OwnerResponsibility; Offshore Operations; Nautical Charts/Navigation Aids; Survival Tips/First Aid; Fueling/FuelManagement; Float Plan/Weather and Sea Conditions;Insurance Considerations; Boating Check List; and SafeBoating Classes.

Have a safe and enjoyable 2008 Boating Season!Questions are welcome...just leave a message for me at740-397-8385.

Lt Sue Nadolson, AP

West MarineGarners Awards

CSPS would like to congratulate West Marine onSawmill Rd in Dublin OH. At the February West MarineAnnual Meeting held in Florida, the Sawmill Rd store tookall seven awards for their district. The entire staff had ahand in securing the awards for lowest percentage ofshrinkage, highest increase in sales overall, for previous yearand sales in electronics. Harold Beidel and the staff at WestMarine would like to thank all CSPS members for makingthis possible. Please visit the store and congratulate them.

May 2008 5

EDUCATIONAL OFFICERLt/C Dave Clark, AP

CS&PS Spring Class 2008

Headquarters address: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035Headquarters address: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035Headquarters address: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035Headquarters address: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035Headquarters address: 8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035For registration call Dave Clark 614-891-4120 or email For registration call Dave Clark 614-891-4120 or email For registration call Dave Clark 614-891-4120 or email For registration call Dave Clark 614-891-4120 or email For registration call Dave Clark 614-891-4120 or email clark.32@osu.educlark.32@osu.educlark.32@osu.educlark.32@osu.educlark.32@osu.edu

CourseCourseCourseCourseCourse First ClassFirst ClassFirst ClassFirst ClassFirst Class LengthLengthLengthLengthLength InstructorInstructorInstructorInstructorInstructor CostCostCostCostCostSeamanship Mon May 5 9 wks Bill Lehner, David Michael $30.00

USPS has encouraged local squadrons to partner withother boating organizations. We took the opportunity topartner with the Alum Creek Sailing Association (ASCA) andopened our Sail Course to their members. Our membershave been invited to take their sail course this summer. It isa good mix since our course is an extensive classroomcourse with no on-the-water experience. Their course isalmost exclusively on-the-water with only about twoclassroom hours. We hope some of the ACSA memberswill elect to join our squadron.

Remote education is less remote. Two meetings wereheld in January. In the first Larry Whiting arranged a linkupwith a classroom at Ohio State. Rob Stephens and LarryLowe found that the system worked as planned and we hadan excellent static picture. However, since no one was atthe OSU end we were unable to determine the quality of theaudio or dynamic (moving) video. Larry Lowe established alinkup at his home for the second meeting. We foundduring that experiment that the new internet service atheadquarters has solved many of our previous problems.The audio quality was excellent at both ends. The videoreceived by Larry was excellent (both static and dynamic) aswas the static video received at headquarters. Movement atLarry’s end (dynamic video) appeared on the monitor atheadquarters as jerky. This should pose no problem whenbroadcasting a class since high quality dynamic videofeedback from the remote location is not important. Theinstructor needs only to see the class and to respond to

questions. The next step is toattempt a remote broadcast.We will partner with OSU andpresent a two-hour seminar on3 May from10am-noon. Weneed help from an interestedmember (i.e., please call). Noexperience necessary. Theperson will only need to makephone calls to arrange forpeople and equipment to beready for the day of the class -although hands-on help would be greatly appreciated.

P/C David Michael passed all the requirements forInstructor Qualification (IQ). IQ is required of all individualsteaching squadron courses. David will be co-instructing withBill Lehner in the Seamanship course that begins in May,2008. David will take over as lead instructor in the followingyear.

Each of you, and especially Members-at-Large, areencouraged to drop in to the Squadron Boating Course heldMonday evenings at the Grandview Heights High School.There is an especially large number of students this yearincluding some with significant boating experience. Wewould like you to greet and engage students one-on-one.Class starts at 7:30pm and students begin to arrive at7:00pm. This would be a good time to meet and talk withstudents.

You will notice that this month’s Galley Gossip includesthe coveted USPS Distinction in Journalism award. Asuccessful newsletter is the result of the work of manypeople. I want to thank everyone who submitted articles,forward looking and informative officer reports and pictureslast year. It looks like we are well on our way for anothersuccessful year again this next year. If you have an idea foran article, pictures or an idea to improve the Galley Gossip,please give me a call at 614-202-1312. P/C David Michael, P

VSC Help Needed!VESSEL SAFETY EXAMS will be performed at Alum

Creek State Park (Hollenback Ramp) on Saturday, May 17thfrom 9am to noon and Sunday, May 18th from 10am-1pm.If you would like to help with the exams, please contactJohn Pruitt at 614-236-5074 or via e-mail atjmepruitt@prodigy.net There is a need for 3-4 people eachday to answer questions about the Squadron, hand outinformation to boaters and assist the examiners.

Congrats to P/C Larry Lowe, SN, on the birth ofCongrats to P/C Larry Lowe, SN, on the birth ofCongrats to P/C Larry Lowe, SN, on the birth ofCongrats to P/C Larry Lowe, SN, on the birth ofCongrats to P/C Larry Lowe, SN, on the birth ofhis newest granddaughter Lydia Joy Pike, bornhis newest granddaughter Lydia Joy Pike, bornhis newest granddaughter Lydia Joy Pike, bornhis newest granddaughter Lydia Joy Pike, bornhis newest granddaughter Lydia Joy Pike, born

26 March. Mother Lori Pike and baby26 March. Mother Lori Pike and baby26 March. Mother Lori Pike and baby26 March. Mother Lori Pike and baby26 March. Mother Lori Pike and babyare doing just fine.are doing just fine.are doing just fine.are doing just fine.are doing just fine.

6 Galley Gossip

SECRETARYLt/C Steve Smith, AP

Columbus Sail and Power SquadronColumbus Sail and Power SquadronColumbus Sail and Power SquadronColumbus Sail and Power SquadronColumbus Sail and Power SquadronMinutes of the Executive CommitteeMinutes of the Executive CommitteeMinutes of the Executive CommitteeMinutes of the Executive CommitteeMinutes of the Executive Committee25 March 200825 March 200825 March 200825 March 200825 March 2008

(These minutes will be approved at the April Executive Committeemeeting.)

Interim Cdr Larry Lowe, SN, called the meeting to order at 1930 atthe Squadron’s headquarters, 8492 Cotter Street, Lewis Center, OH.

Lt Debra Smith, AP, gave the invocation.Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN, lead the Pledge of Allegiance.Roll call was taken by sight and the secretary confirmed a quorum

was present.The following Executive Committee members were present: Interim

Cdr Larry Lowe, SN; Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN;Asst Education Officer Lt Mike Cohee, P; Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S,Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN, P/C David Michael, P, Lt Tracy Garrett,AP, Lt Wade Grosz, AP, Lt Doug Jackson, JN, Lt Ron Lavely, JN, Lt JeffMirgon, S.

Also, present were Lt Debra Smith, AP.With no objection, the order of business was varied to expedite the

meeting.The minutes of the February meeting were approved.

Commander’s Comments (a summary):Commander’s Comments (a summary):Commander’s Comments (a summary):Commander’s Comments (a summary):Commander’s Comments (a summary):Our Squadron’s theme this year is “Making Headway.”The Columbus Sail and Power Squadron believes that, with only

three months into the new year, we are making great headway towardreaching our goals.

•We have formed a strategic planning committee to be co-chairedby P/C Larry Lowe, SN, and Lt/C and Executive Officer Bob Prior, S, tolook at issues such as member recruitment and member involvement,expanded educational opportunities and other concerns.

•Our Vessel Safety Check program’s goal is 100 vessel examinationsthis season.

•Our Youth Program will be busy this spring and summer with theNational Poster Contest “Boat Safety – Keep Our Waters Clean.” Weare working with Special Olympics in Central Ohio to give kids rides onsquadron member boats at Alum Creek State Park and Buckeye Lake.

•Under the leadership of our Public Relations Officer Tracey Garrettand others I think we have made significant progress in marketing andpromotion.

•The National Water Safety Congress had awarded us an “Award ofMerit.” This award acknowledges our “outstanding contribution to thepromotion of water safety issues and programs within Region 1 during2007” involving the “Git-R-On” painting at the Delaware Dam. Theaward will be presented at the international Boating and Water SafetySummit in San Diego in mid-April.

•Membership involvement•Increase enrollment in our squadron member classes.•Following National’s wish that every squadron add 10 percent of its

membership as new members, we are strongly pursing this goal.•Executive Committee action in 2007 made it easier to recruit and

retain new members. An affirmative vote eliminated the longstandingrequirement that prospective members had to sit and pass the safeboating course in order to join. This policy change opens up a greatmembership recruiting opportunity for us and the Membership Commit-tee wants to take advantage of it.

I want to thank all those who have made phone calls and sent cardsand letters and flowers related to my recent surgery. I really appreciatedthe support and all the thoughts and prayers. They all helped in a bigway.

The D-29 Spring Conference is this weekend at Maumee Bay StatePark, hosted by the Marion Squadron. I am able to attend – my first bigtrip since surgery. I thank those of you who are able to attend.

Headquarters had informed the Columbus Sail and Power Squadronthat nine of our members have earned “senior” membership status byearning their fifth merit mark this past year. Those individuals are LarryHarris, Douglas Jackson, JN, Matthew Murphy, Steven Smith, JN, DebraSmith, AP, Ronald Stewart, AP, Guy Williams, P, Larry Whiting, P, and

Linda Whiting, S.I have committed the Squadron to a

booth at next February’s Columbus,Sports, and Recreational Show, based onthe favorable reviews that were given atlast month’s EXCOMM meeting. Thecost will be $150.

Report of Officers:Report of Officers:Report of Officers:Report of Officers:Report of Officers:

Executive Officer Lt/C Bob Prior, S:Executive Officer Lt/C Bob Prior, S:Executive Officer Lt/C Bob Prior, S:Executive Officer Lt/C Bob Prior, S:Executive Officer Lt/C Bob Prior, S:On 15 March, P/C Skip Woodruff

conducted the “Instructor Development”training at HQ. Good material and wellpresented. The goat of the seminar was

to help prepare squadron members to become not only qualified butquality instructors as well. I encourage all members who would like to“pay ahead” to new boaters, to please consider becoming an instructor.Dave Clark and his team can always use more.

Two friends of mine are taking the Safe Boating Class. Both give thecourse rave reviews. My congratulations to all involved.

At the USPS National Meeting, a constant theme was expressedthroughout the entire convention and that, of course, was that we as anorganization must do more to promote the use of life preservers. Notethat I used the term “life preserver.” After all these years the USCG isabandoning the use of “PFD.” They are dropping it entirely. Theirresearch has concluded that in spite of their best efforts, the term simplynever caught on with the boating public. Rather than continue to pushwater up hill, they will revert to the I.D. that all of us grew up with.

Through the years, I have rarely used a life preserver (jacket). Likemost of us, I found them to be bulky, hot and uncomfortable. Whileboating in the British Virgin Islands, I tried my new self-inflating jacketand after a day or two, I never even knew I had it on. This summer, as agroup, we should encourage our boating friends as Lake Erie who resistswearing their traditional life jackets to consider the self inflating jackets.The Coast Guard feels so strongly about this that they are going tofurnish USPS squadrons with 5 self inflating life jackets for our VesselSafety Check Examiners to wear while doing their inspections. In otherwords, the USCS is going to help us lead by example.

John Pruitt will once again head up our Vessel Safety Checks.Anyone wishing to become a VSC examiner is encouraged to contactJohn at jmepruitt@prodigy.net. Our goat is to conduct at least 100checks. Think of it this way, if every member of the CSPS has their boatinspected, we will easily surpass our goal.

We are moving forward with the development of a comprehensivestrategic plan for your squadron. If you are interested in participating, Iwould be delighted to hear from you. Please contact me atrlprior@prodigy.net or 614 457-6772.

In closing, consider this: in 2007, Ohio suffered 12 boatingfatalities; 11 were not wearing life jackets.

Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN:Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN:Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN:Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN:Administrative Officer Lt/C Michael Hughes, JN:Dinner Meetings:Dinner Meetings:Dinner Meetings:Dinner Meetings:Dinner Meetings:

The March 6th dinner meeting held at Barley’s Smokehouse was veryeducational. Due to personal reasons, Surveyor Dan Libby was unable tobe the guest speaker. We quickly reorganized and our program involvedproper technique for tying of knots for boat lines. Special thanks to P/CLarry Lowe for assisting with the instruction. Everyone had a great timegetting all tied up.

Our May 1st meeting will be at Headquarters and catered by Hoggy’s.This program will prove to be very HOT! $20 per person covers dinnerand program expenses. Join us for some lifesaving tips from the OrangeTownship Fire Department. 50-50 Raffle will be available.

The June dinner will be a family cookout hosted by the Sea Gals onthe 12th at the Guild Athletic Club. See the Sea Gals report for moreinformation.

This year, our Dec 6th Christmas party will be co-hosted with the SeaGals at the Reception Room at Raymond Memorial Golf Course on

May 2008 7

Trabue Road. We will have a buffet luncheon this year beginning withcheck in at 11:30am. We are asking every family to bring a wrapped giftin the theme of boating valued no more than $25. So watch thissummer for those bargains at all the great shopping spots on the water.AO Committee:AO Committee:AO Committee:AO Committee:AO Committee:

I am holding a planning meeting on Wednesday, March 26 at6:30pm at HQ to discuss membership recruitment, involvement andretention. This committee is comprised of Joyce & John Mattis, Ruth &Glenn Kubinski, Barbara & Ron Hupman, Phil Osborne and DonDelewese. We will be working on ways to attain new members from the73 current students in the Public Boating Class.Membership:Membership:Membership:Membership:Membership:

I received a list from Ron Stewart of new and reinstated membersfrom 2007-08. There are 7 new members and 5 reinstated members.This information has been forwarded to the Roster Chairperson and theMembership Committee.

Last month Theresa Nadolson was nominated and approved for theposition of Roster Chairperson. She is working diligently to present uswith an updated roster. As soon as this is in my hands, my callingcommittee can begin contacting people to verify information and invitethem to dinners, outings and upcoming events.

The Public Boating Course will end on April 21st with the test thatnight. I strongly encourage all members to attend this class. The SeaGals are planning on cookies and drinks for students. We need peopleto help grade tests, interact with the students and show support for ourorganization. In addition, I personally invite all women to this class toshow students that women are involved and hold positions of responsi-bility within our group.

I would like to thank Gerard & Kathy Papp for reinstating theirmemberships recently. We hope to see more of them at future events.Cruises & Rendezvous:Cruises & Rendezvous:Cruises & Rendezvous:Cruises & Rendezvous:Cruises & Rendezvous:

See the CSPS Webpage for a complete list of trips scheduled thissummer.Member Benefits:Member Benefits:Member Benefits:Member Benefits:Member Benefits:

•Sherwin Williams Neighbor-to-Neighbor program saves anyonewho mentions the Columbus Sail & Power Squadron a 20% savings onmost purchases.

•The Kroger program benefits the squadron when you use yourCSPS gift card. This card can be recharged on a regular basis by cash,check or credit card.

•Dell gives squadron members a discount. Visit www.dell.com/ghc.Use member ID CS25031302 to enter the discount store. See USPSwebsite for more details.HOUSEKEEPINGHOUSEKEEPINGHOUSEKEEPINGHOUSEKEEPINGHOUSEKEEPING

Please remember to remove all trash after a class, meetings, or gettogethers in our building. We cannot afford to have uninvited guests(mice) because of poor housekeeping.

Educational Officer Lt/C David Clark, AP:Educational Officer Lt/C David Clark, AP:Educational Officer Lt/C David Clark, AP:Educational Officer Lt/C David Clark, AP:Educational Officer Lt/C David Clark, AP:Jeff Mirgon’s Squadron Boating Course is going well. More than 60

students have enrolled. It looks like all the work Tracy Garrett put intopromoting the course is paying off. A number of the students haveexpressed interest in taking the squadron advanced grade and electivecourses. We would very much appreciate the help of any of you,including Members-at-Large, to engage one-on-one with students onMonday evenings to sell them the advantages of USPS membership.

A number of Alum Creek Sailing Association members have taken usup on our offer to take the sail course taught by Ken Spilke and DougJackson. At the time the offer was discussed at a previous bridgemeeting, we all concurred that it was a good idea and one that would besupported by National. We have learned since then that the concept of“Partnering” promoted by National is alive and well, but is does notapply to Squadron Courses. All advanced grades and elective coursesmay be taken only by active members of the USPS. We have elected tohonor our offer to Alum Creek Sailing Association members and they willbe allowed to continue to attend classes. I think our good will will payoff. Several of the guests in the class have indicated an interest injoining the squadron.

Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN:Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN:Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN:Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN:Secretary Lt/C Steve Smith, JN:Minutes of last month’s Executive Committee Meeting were

approved. A motion was made by Lt/C Hughes, Seconded by Lt Grosz tomove the date of the June meeting to 12 June. The motion passedunanimously.

Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S:Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S:Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S:Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S:Treasurer Lt/C John Mattis, S:Copies of the Treasurer’s report for last month were distributed.

Members-at-Large Reports:Members-at-Large Reports:Members-at-Large Reports:Members-at-Large Reports:Members-at-Large Reports:

Lt Ron Lavely, JN:Lt Ron Lavely, JN:Lt Ron Lavely, JN:Lt Ron Lavely, JN:Lt Ron Lavely, JN:The Kanawah River trip is coming up. Get your reservations in for

the hotel soon as this will be a big celebration weekend and the roomswill go fast. Ramonda DeCapio is heading up the Bob-Lo Islandrendezvous.

Lt Jeff Mirgon, S:Lt Jeff Mirgon, S:Lt Jeff Mirgon, S:Lt Jeff Mirgon, S:Lt Jeff Mirgon, S:There are 72 people in the public boating class. We will have a

wrap-up meeting Monday, 28 April at Michael & Tracy’s house at 1900.This will go over the public boating class and review all that happened.

We will have a meeting on 27 March at HQ at 1930 to develop asurvey for the public boating class. This will hopefully provide goodinsight into what worked and what we can improve on next time.

REPORT OF COMMITTEES:REPORT OF COMMITTEES:REPORT OF COMMITTEES:REPORT OF COMMITTEES:REPORT OF COMMITTEES:

GENERAL COMMITTEES;GENERAL COMMITTEES;GENERAL COMMITTEES;GENERAL COMMITTEES;GENERAL COMMITTEES;Squadron Remote Education: Squadron Remote Education: Squadron Remote Education: Squadron Remote Education: Squadron Remote Education: P/C Larry Lowe, SN and Joe Hetzel,

AP, have a tentative class scheduled with O.S.U. on 23 May.

STANDING COMMITTEES:STANDING COMMITTEES:STANDING COMMITTEES:STANDING COMMITTEES:STANDING COMMITTEES:Sea Gals: Lt Debbie Smith, AP:Sea Gals: Lt Debbie Smith, AP:Sea Gals: Lt Debbie Smith, AP:Sea Gals: Lt Debbie Smith, AP:Sea Gals: Lt Debbie Smith, AP:

• 17 April – Italian night at Mirgons’ house, bring your own wine.• 20 May – Sea Gals annual meeting and change-of-watch at the

Clintonville Women’s Club.

SPECIAL COMMITTEES:SPECIAL COMMITTEES:SPECIAL COMMITTEES:SPECIAL COMMITTEES:SPECIAL COMMITTEES:

MARKETING: Lt Tracy Garrett, SMARKETING: Lt Tracy Garrett, SMARKETING: Lt Tracy Garrett, SMARKETING: Lt Tracy Garrett, SMARKETING: Lt Tracy Garrett, S11th Annual USPS National Youth Poster Contest – information has

been sent to over 60 art teachers in Central Ohio, Boy & Girl Scoutleaders, Columbus Dispatch and Youth Services at libraries in CentralOhio. Since this is the week most schools re on break, I have not hadany responses. Posters must be in our possession by June 10th. We willvote in July for the Squadron level, District level votes in August andNational is September. We will try to add the information to our webpage if space allows.

Delaware Dam Painting – In conjunction with the US Corp ofEngineers, we will again paint the orange PFD with the message GIT-R-ON on the earthen dam. We try to do the first painting during safeboating week and a second painting about 6 weeks later (end of June).Anyone interested in helping with the preparations or with publicrelations, please contact P/C Larry Lowe or Lt Tracy Garrett.

Sick Bay:Sick Bay:Sick Bay:Sick Bay:Sick Bay:Commander Larry Whiting, P.

The next Executive Committee meeting will be on 22 April 2008 at8492 Cotter St., Lewis Center, OH 43035. The meeting adjourned at2145.

SECRETARY- continued

8 Galley Gossip

District 29 Bridge for 2007-2008District 29 Bridge for 2007-2008District 29 Bridge for 2007-2008District 29 Bridge for 2007-2008District 29 Bridge for 2007-2008P/D/C Samuel Woodruff Jr, AP (seated), R-L D/Lt/C Pablo Prieto,

SN, D/Lt/C William Hall, AP, D/C Albert Hess, AP,D/Lt/C Hal Joe Shafer, JN, D/Lt/C Philip Osborne, AP

As your new Com-mander, it is my responsi-bility to meet head on thechallenges that we face inthe coming year. This iswhat I would like to brieflyfocus on here tonight. Atthe top of our list of courseis the recruitment of newmembers. For the past

several years, as you know, our membership has beendeclining. We, as a District, are currently under 1100members. National has given us a goal for a 10% increasein membership. That means with 8 squadrons we have atremendous challenge ahead of us, but you know what, wecan do it. With each squadron doing their greatest poten-tial, WE CAN DO IT. With creative ideas to attract newmembers, we should be able to achieve our goals.

I can hear the rumbling already. “We have triedeverything in the book”, and it just seems we keep battingheads against the wall. Well, let me tell you, there are ideasout there that we haven’t scratched the surface yet. Let mejust share with you one idea that Columbus is doing. Theyhave contacted marine dealers around Columbus and areholding seminars and classes in these facilities. Vessel SafetyCheckers, get your name out there. The more you do, themore people you meet, the more potential members. Place aflyers in the marinas or on the boats. Let them know whenyou’ll be back or make an appointment to do an inspection.Set a goal and achieve it. Hold more classes. Teach 1 extra

Acceptance Speech,2008 Spring Conference

D/C Al Hess, AP

class. Again, get some flyers out. Check the results. Younever know when you might sign up a Squadron Com-mander.

Now I have said that to say this. Member involvement ismember retention. Organize a telephone committee andstart calling your members on the telephone. Personalcontact is a great tool and it works better than anything. Themore people you get involved, the less work you have to do.

Well I want to keep this short, so I am going to leaveyou with this. To help motivate you with membership andmember involvement, we are going to have a contest. Thiscontest will be based on a whole year’s attendance startingwith the next Summer Council Meeting, and ending withthe Spring Conference in ‘09. The District will be offering aprize, such as a lap top computer, projector, or the winnerwill have a choice of an educational award valued at$750.00. Details will be sent to all Squadron Commanderssoon after the conference is over, so you can get prepared tobe the winner. I will clue you in a little bit, to give yousomething to talk about. As I said, it will be based on awhole year’s attendance for both the Winter and SummerCouncil Meetings, and Fall ‘08 and Spring 09 Conferences.There will be points given for attendance. It won’t be easybut attainable.

I cannot do the job alone. But together, we can make adifference.

Together, —— we can do great things!

A first for District 29, the prestigious Chapman Award isgiven to P/C James Sommers, SN (Toledo).

May 2008 9

SprSprSprSprSpringingingingingConfConfConfConfConferererererenceenceenceenceenceMemorMemorMemorMemorMemoriesiesiesiesies28-30 Mar28-30 Mar28-30 Mar28-30 Mar28-30 MarccccchhhhhMaumee BaMaumee BaMaumee BaMaumee BaMaumee Bayyyyy

ResorResorResorResorResorttttt

CS&PS was well-represented at the Fifties Party! Bonnie & P/C David Michael,

From left: Don Sudek (Toledo), Bob Rayburn (Columbus), Janet Runnerand Kathy Runner (Sandusky), and Georgia Rayburn (Columbus).

D/C Al Hess andP/C Sharon Manter (Ft Wayne). District newsletter editors and helpers received Disctinction in Journalism Awards.

D/29 Safety Officer Ruth Wilcox is presentedwith the Safety Award by the Chief’s RepNational Executive Officer V/C Dvorak.

The “Sister Act” kept everyone in stitches!

These “First Timers” enjoyed their first District Conference!

Tracy Garrett and Dorie Backus (Toledo).

10 Galley Gossip

Since there is only one more Galley Gossip coming outbefore the summer boating season, make sure your nameand email address is listed for any and all events you wantto attend. Contact Ron Lavely at rlavely@columbus.rr.com.

Depending on the distribution schedule for this month’sGalley Gossip, you may have a few days to still get in yourreservations for the “Spring Ice Breaker”“Spring Ice Breaker”“Spring Ice Breaker”“Spring Ice Breaker”“Spring Ice Breaker”. It is being held onMay 3, at the Nor’Easter Club on Harbor Island. The addressis 2801 Nor’Easter Cove Drive, Port Clinton Ohio. Festivitiesstart at 1800 hours with a cash bar and dinner at 1900 hrs.Prior to April 26, its $25.00 per adult and $12.50 for childrenunder 12. $1 additional after April 26. Contact Sherry orDave Ehrbar as soon as possible. dre1353@yahoo.com .

Our first cruise of 2008 is fast approaching. On June 20-22 the Kanawha River Trailer Boat Cruise Kanawha River Trailer Boat Cruise Kanawha River Trailer Boat Cruise Kanawha River Trailer Boat Cruise Kanawha River Trailer Boat Cruise will be held. Wewill be departing from Gallipolis and then traveling up theKanawha River to Charleston WV. If you do not have yourhotel reservations in yet, hurry. This is a busy week for ourdestination Port of Charleston WV. Charleston will becelebrating their week long “River Front Festival” while weare there. To make reservations contact “Holiday InnCharleston House, 304-344-4092. Rooms are $89 per nightif you mention the US Power Squadron when makingreservations. The Charleston Sail & Power Squadron iswelcoming us with open arms and hosting a cookout for us.For more information on this event, contact Mike Hughesmtbuckets@aol.com and Jeff Mirgon will be hosting thisevent.

Our next event is coming fast also. BobLo Island 4BobLo Island 4BobLo Island 4BobLo Island 4BobLo Island 4ththththth of of of of ofJuly CruiseJuly CruiseJuly CruiseJuly CruiseJuly Cruise is July 3-6. Decorate your boat in its finest Red,White and Blue. Boats will be judged and prizes will beawarded. Let’s show this Canadian Island how proud we areof our country. This cruise will include a trip to a localcasino to see if anyone can break the bank there. Contact,Ramonda DeCapio ramonda20@sbcglobal.net and the gangwill be hosting this event as soon as possible.

July 12-20 will be the North Channel Area Trailer BoatNorth Channel Area Trailer BoatNorth Channel Area Trailer BoatNorth Channel Area Trailer BoatNorth Channel Area Trailer BoatCruiseCruiseCruiseCruiseCruise. This will be a new cruise for the group. They will betrailering their boats to the North Channel Area of OntarioCanada. This exciting event will include stops in Tobermory,Little Current, and Perry Sound. This will be a trip to beremembered for a life time. Contact Ron Lavely to get yourname on the list for this great trip. Phil Osborne and RonLavely rlavely@columbus.rr.com will be co-hosting thisevent.

We have the Sea Gals Gem Beach CruiseSea Gals Gem Beach CruiseSea Gals Gem Beach CruiseSea Gals Gem Beach CruiseSea Gals Gem Beach Cruise coming up onAugust 8-10. Contact any Sea Gals for more information onthis event.

Then August 23, we have the “Lake Erie Lunch Hook”“Lake Erie Lunch Hook”“Lake Erie Lunch Hook”“Lake Erie Lunch Hook”“Lake Erie Lunch Hook”hosted by Larry Lowe. Contact Larry atllowe7298@wowway.com for more information.

September will bring our traditional Lemington LaborLemington LaborLemington LaborLemington LaborLemington LaborDay CruiseDay CruiseDay CruiseDay CruiseDay Cruise. Contact Romanda DeCapio for more informa-tion on this event. September also brings our trip to Put-in-Bay on Sept 19-21. We will be docking at the Crews Nestthis year. Contact Ron Lavely for more information on thisevent.

Check the website out for additional information onthese cruises.

If would like to attend one of these events and do nothave boat appropriate for the voyage we will solve thatproblem. We will attempt to match anyone who wants togo with members that could use an additional couple extracrew members. Or if you have a tow vehicle we can matchyou with someone that needs their boat transported. This isour new “Ride Alone” program

Ron Lavely home 614-879-7388, cell 614-595-1762,rlavely@columbus.rr.com

Kanawha RiverTrailer Boating Trip

20-22 JuneLaunch from the Twin Rivers Marine Dealership in

Gallipolis, OH on Friday morning. Head up theKanawha River for 63 miles going through 2 locks.Shuttle service to and from the marina is provided bythe Charleston House hotel.

Charleston will be hosting their week long‘Festivall’ when we arrive. On Friday, WV Day Liveon the Levee explodes with music and food. Saturdaysees the 10th Annual Smoke on the Water Chili Cook-off. Join in on Saturday for a trip continuing up theKanawha River to the headwaters at Alloy, WV.Come see why this state is called “Almost Heaven”.

We will be having a cookout with the KanawhaRiver Power Squadron on Saturday evening on thewater. Joining us will be the Kanawha River Navyconsisting of 200 members.

Hotel reservations must be made by May 15th inorder to receive the $89 room rate. Contact theHoliday Inn Charleston House at 304-344-4092.Mention the US Power Squadron to obtain the $89rate. If you need a boat to ride on, a crew for yourboat, or more information about this trip contact RonLavely at rlavely@columbus.rr.com or by phone at614-879-7388. He is coordinating the “Ride Along”program for all trips.

Please drop an e-mail to mtbuckets@aol.com sowe know how many are coming.

Summer Cruises & Rendezvous

WANTED - Boating items you no longer want or needThe Sea Gals are hosting the June 12th dinner meeting

and the Power Squadron will conduct an auction of yourunwanted or unneeded boating items. This could be thingsfrom your boat (child life vests, fenders, equipment) ornautical items for the home (coasters, flags, pictures). Nobroken or soiled items please. As you are prepping for theupcoming boating season, keep in mind the auction. Bringyour donations to the June 12th dinner meeting. REMEM-BER, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

May 2008 11

SEA GALS AUXILIARYLt Debbie Smith, AP, Co-Commander

Lunch HookRendezvous

Sat., 23 AugustLocation Lake Erie Islands

Bad Weather Location: Herl’s Harbor

Saturday Lunch Hook Rendezvous (Previouslyknown as the Lake Erie Anchor Out)

Is your anchor getting rusty in the anchor locker?Do you know where your anchor is?Why not drop it in the lake and wash the spiders

off of it?Instead of doing lunch at the dock, why not do

lunch on the hook?You are invited to the Saturday Lunch Hook

Rendezvous at School House Bay, or North Bay,Kelley’s Island (wind direction will determine location).

On 23 August for a day of dining enjoyment andsocial pleasure. Formal attire not required, or permitted,but an RSVP would be appreciated.

Bring your favorite dish to share along with yourdingy, or small boat of choice, or maybe you just wantto come in your dingy.

We will start dropping our lunch hooks at 1000and the fun will begin immediately after. Lunch willbegin at anytime.

Larry Lowe 614-885-3601llowe7298@wowway.com

Scenes frScenes frScenes frScenes frScenes from tom tom tom tom the Sea Galshe Sea Galshe Sea Galshe Sea Galshe Sea Gals’ S’ S’ S’ S’ St. Pt. Pt. Pt. Pt. Patratratratratricicicicickkkkks Das Das Das Das Day Py Py Py Py Pararararartytytytyty

By the time you read this, our 2nd annual Italian nightwill have passed. We are getting a good response to it and Ican assure you that we will have had a wonderful time.Thank you Jeff and Mary for a special evening. Mary, thefood was out of this world !!!!

MAY 20 is the date to mark on your calendars for theANNUAL MEETING. This year will be at CLINTONVILLEWOMENS CLUB. There will be flyers and a personal phonecall so be ready. We need YOU there. There is much to doand we really need YOUR input.

Our deepest thanks to Michael and Tracy and to Daveand Sherry for hosting the Valentine and St. Patricks parties.Valentines was a very small party, due to Mother Nature andher ice show, but those couples had a good time. St. Patty’swas enjoyed by many of you and as usual, the Ehrbars weregreat hosts. Again many thanks for opening your homes andletting us enjoy the fun and fellowship.

June 12 will be a picnic with the squadron and the SEAGALS WILL BE DOING THE COOKING !!!!! We will begetting ahold of everyone as the time gets nearer, but mark iton your calendars NOW.

Our new rosters are ready and will be passed out in Apriland May. Mary did a wonderful job on them and I know itwas a chore. Thanks Mary for all the work.

So mark those calendars and plan on joining us for manyfun times with friends. Remember, It is YOUR organization,and without YOU, it isn’t as great.

See you soon,Mary and Debbie

12 Galley Gossip

COLUMBUS SAIL & POWER SQUADRONLt/C Steve Smith, JN535 Pointview Dr.Westerville, OH 43081RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Galley GossipSponsors Club

Would you like to have your boat, business or pets listed on the Galley Gossip Sponsors Club page? Your $20contribution will receive a full year of sponsorship listing beginning January 2008. Please indicate below the exactmanner (UPPER & lower case) in which your listing should appear.

Your Name: ___________________________________Please PRINT your listing as it should appear. Indicate UPPER & lower Case (A a):

_______________________________________________________________________

Send your $20 per listingper listingper listingper listingper listing fee made payable to Columbus Sail and Power Squadron to: Tracy Garrett, 1263Oakland Ave , Columbus , OH 43212 . If you have any questions, please contact via e-mail at mtbuckets@aol.com orby phone at 614-488-4758.

If you wish to be listed in 2008, please complete and mail the request form with your payment. Submissionsreceived before the first of each month will be in print the following month.

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